Rhyming Books
I have always loved rhyming books. When I was a child, rhyming picture books were always my favorite books to read. As a speech therapist and a mom, I have many favorite rhyming books, and I wanted to share a list of my favorites with you.
When I went to school to become a speech therapist, I discovered how much rhyming books can help develop reading readiness. In fact, rhyming is a key phonological awareness skill that children need to develop to become proficient readers.
This concept of rhyming can be a difficult one to learn at first. Children often have more trouble hearing sounds at the ends of words. These rhyming books will help your child become familiar with rhyming. The added bonus is you will not mind reading these fun books.
The Best Rhyming Books
Each colorful block below represents the best book in a subgenre. Click on the arrow to reveal my “best” pick in any category. You’ll also be able to use a page jump to see more books in that section.
Best Rhyming Book for Toddlers
But Not the Hippopotamus – Jump to Section
Best Rhyming Book for Preschool
Giraffes Can’t Dance – Jump to Section
Best Kindergarten Rhyming Book
The Circus Ship – Jump to Section
Best Rhyming Book for Learning to Read
Rhyme Crime – Jump to Section
Best Classic Rhyming Book
Madeline – Jump to Section
*Rhyming Books Post contains affiliate links. Purchases made through links result in a small commission to us at no cost to you. Some books have been gifted. All opinions are our own.
Rhyming Books for Toddlers
But Not the Hippopotamus
Author: Sandra Boynton
Illustrator: Boynton
Year: 1982
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 4
Plot
Animals are all playing together- cavorting in a bog, drinking juice etc. and the hippo is not joining them.
Why Jackie loves it
I loved reading this with my kids. It is utterly ridiculous and completely wonderful. One of my oldest son’s first words was “armadillo!” It is a perfect classic children’s book.
Find this book in: Animal Books for Kids / Books for a 1-year-old / Rhyming Books / Classic Books for Kids
Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site
Author: Sherry Dusky Rinker
Illustrator: Tom Lichtenheld
Year: 2011
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 7
More info: Part of the Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site series
Plot
Little kids love construction vehicles. The giant, funky looking machinery never fails to capture their attention. So obviously, there isn’t a better way to start bedtime than with a rhyming construction book about the giants machines going to bed after a long day at work.
Why Kirsten loves it
I’ve read this so many times I can still hear myself whisper-reading “Down on the big construction site, the tough trucks work with all their might…” This is one of my favorite books series to gift to new parents! It’s a modern classic.
Find this book in: Bedtime Stories / Best Books for 3-year-olds / Rhyming Books
Llama Llama Red Pajama
Author: Anna Dewdney
Year: 2012
Genre: Bedtime Books
Age: 1-3
More info: Book 1 of Llama Llama Series
Plot
As the original book in the Lama Llama series, Llama Llama Red Pajama has a special place in our hearts. It’s the story that introduced us to our pal and his amazing Mama Llama.
In this one, Llama Llama is having trouble falling asleep – something every child can relate to, but his behavior has Mama maintaining a firm but loving routine to help Llama.
Why Jackie loves it
Every child has trouble with bedtime at some point. This sweet book helps kids realize they are not alone. As an added bonus, the book is written in rhyme.
Find this book in: Bedtime Books for Kids / Best Animal Books for Kids / Rhyming Books
Rhyming Books for Preschool
Giraffes Can’t Dance
Author: Giles Andreae
Illustrator: Guy Parker-Rees
Year: 1999
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 1 – 5
Plot
Gerald is a giraffe who wants to dance but things that is can’t. Thanks to a friend who encourages him, Gerald finds a way to embrace his differences.
Why Jackie loves it
I absolutely love this book about following your heart and being true to yourself. The bonus of rhyming makes this book that much more special. This is one of the children’s books about being different that I was happy to read over and over.
Find this book in: Animal Books for Kids / Books for 2-Year-Olds / Rhyming Books
Chicka Chicka Boom Boom
Author: Bill Martin Jr. & John Archambault
Illustrator: Lois Ehlert
Year: 1989
Genre: Board Book
Age: 1 – 4
More info: Chicka Chika #1
Plot
Rhyming? check. Letters? check. This classic book checks so many boxes with the added bonus that it is fun to read with your kids. Even the name itself is a perfect example of alliteration in books.
Why Jackie loves it
If you have not picked up yet, it is a must-read for any preschool child and a perfect book to help with reading readiness as well.
Find this book in: Alphabet Books / Rhyming Books / Books for a 1-year-old / Alliteration Books / Classic Books for Kids
Bear Wants More
Author: Karma Wilson
Illustrator: Jane Chapman
Year: 2003
Genre: Board Books
Age: 1 – 4
More info: Part of the Bear Books series
Plot
After waking up from his winter hibernation, he is so hungry! Eager to help him after his long sleep, his friends help him gather things to eat.
Why Kirsten loves it
There are so many things about this book that I adore. Bear’s friends are so wonderful and supportive of him and he is so sweet and gentle. This book also has wonderful vocabulary words for little ears.
Find this book in: Best Books for 2-year-olds / Rhyming Books
Stretchy McHandsome
Author: Judy Schachner
Illustrator: Judy Schachner
Year: 2019
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 5
Plot
An adorable stray cat, who often gets into trouble, loves to explore town and get into mischief. When he meets a little girl with the same personality, he realizes her lap looks awfully inviting.
Why Jackie loves it
We love our butterscotch kitty and so this book was a no brainer. Stretchy McHandsome finds his perfect girl with humor, love and rhyme. Who could ask for anything more.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 3-year-olds
Room on the Broom
Author: Julia Donaldson
Illustrator: Axel Scheffler
Year: 2003
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 8
Plot
A friendly witch takes to the night on her broomstick, but as the wind blows away her hat, her bow, and her wand, she finds some cute friends to join her on her ride. Will her friends be able to save her from a hungry dragon? This classic Halloween book for kids is now a cartoon movie!
Why Kirsten loves it
This is a year-round book in my house. The sweet tale by Donaldson and the fun illustrations by Scheffler will have this on your favorites list long after Halloween is over!
Why Jackie loves it
The wonderful rhymes in this book tell the story of friendship and inclusivity. This is one of my favorite books to promote reading readiness.
Find this book in: Witch Books for Kids / Halloween Picture Books / Halloween Movies Based on Books / Rhyming Books / Dragon Books for Kids / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Kindergarten Rhyming Books
The Circus Ship
Author: Chris Van Dusen
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Year: 2009
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 5
Plot
As a circus ship is headed toward Maine, it encounters a storm and begins to sink. The animals who are left to fend for themselves make it to safety and become part of the town. When the horrible owner of the circus comes looking for the animals, he encounters a surprise.
Why Jackie loves it
This book about a sunken circus ship is not only funny, but it is heartwarming as well. Chris Van Dusen is a master of rhyme. The rhyming scheme in this book is fantastic which only adds to the delight of this animal book.
Find this book in: Animal Book for Kids / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 4-year-olds
The Gruffalo
Author: Julia Donaldson
Illustrator: Axel Scheffler
Year: 2005
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 7
Plot
This book is another classic in our house. Mouse proves that a little bit of brain is all you need when faced with a whole lot of muscle. We adore this rhyming wonder.
Why Jackie loves it
Not only is this book written in rhyme, but it is funny as well. It also has a very strong message about brains vs. brawn as well as bullying.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Animal Children’s Books / Best Books for 5-Year-Olds / Monster Books for Kids
The Wonky Donkey
Author: Craig Smith
Illustrator: Katz Cowley
Year: 2010
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2+
Plot
This book starts with what seems like a simple story. I was walking down the road and I saw a donkey who only had three legs… This story progresses into a hysterical tale of a donkey that will leave you in tears from laughing so hard.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is hilarious! But more than that, this book is a great book to read with your child to practice their auditory memory skills. The description of the donkey repeats in its entirety with each new item added to give your child a chance to remember and repeat.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 3-year-olds / Animal Books
Iggy Peck Architect
Author: Andrea Beaty
Illustrator: David Roberts
Year: 2007
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3 – 6
More info: The Questioneers #1
Plot
2nd grader, Iggy Peck wants to be an architect when he grows up. He constantly building things around the classroom, much to the dismay of his teacher. When his class gets stranded on a class trip, it’s up to Iggy to save the day!
Why Kirsten loves it
I love Iggy Peck and all his friends. They are smart, funny, and independent thinkers. Not only does this book put a spotlight on being yourself but, the rhymes and vocabulary are nothing short of spectacular.
Find this book in: Best Books for 4-year-olds / Rhyming Books
If I Built a House
Author: Chris Van Dusen
Illustrator: Chris Van Dusen
Year: 2005
Genre: Picture Books
Age: 3-6
More info: Part of the If I built Series
Plot
Jack has the best imagination. In this book, he describes to his mom everything that he would include in a house if he built it. I have to say that I would love some of these gadgets in my house too.
Why Jackie loves it
I cannot count the number of times I have read this book, and it will never be enough. The imagination of the wonderful Chris Van Dusen never ceases to amaze me. This book is the one that started our love of this amazing author. The rhymes in this book are seamless and perfectly integrated into the story. My 16-year-old still remembers this book fondly!
Find this book in: Rhyming Books /
Best Rhyming Books for Learning to Read
Rhyme Crime
Author: Jon Burgerman
Illustrator: Jon Burgerman
Year: 2017
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
Plot
When a thief commits a crime, everything he steals becomes a rhyme. Yep. That’s the premise, and it gets uproariously funny.
Why Jackie loves it
The rhymes in this book create simple humor that are not only funny but will give you child a chance to guess what the word thief will do next.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 3-year-olds
Don’t Be Silly Mrs. Millie
Author: Judy Cox
Illustrator: Joe Mathieu
Year: 2005
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 4-6
Plot
Mrs. Millie keeps making mistakes like telling her students to wear their bats and kittens (instead of hats and mittens). The kids go through a day of school but the artwork shows all the silly mistakes that Mrs. Millie makes.
Why Jackie loves it
Not only is this book perfect for identifying rhyming words, but it also incorporates wordplay that will help in the development of reading skills.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books
Rhyming Dust Bunnies
Author: Jan Thomas
Illustrator: Jan Thomas
Year: 2009
Genre: Picture Book
Age: 3-5
Plot
These dust bunnies love to rhyme and are quite excellent at it- except for Bob. He cannot quite seems to get it right. Your child will love to giggle as Bob tries to rhyme. It will also give them a chance to recognize the odd bunny out.
Why Jackie loves it
I love that this book has the expectations of rhyming and Bob who makes errors. Your child will have so much fun helping Bob get the rhymes correct
Find this book in:
Classic Rhyming Books
Madeline
Author: Ludwig Bemelmans
Illustrator: Ludwig Bemelmans
Year: 1939
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 1 – 5
More info: Madeline #1, Caldecott Honor Book
Plot
Madeline is the smallest of the 12 little girls in 2 straight lines, but nothing frightens her. Join her as she wanders through Paris, which comes alive thanks to Bemelmans’ whimsical illustrations.
Why Jackie loves it
This book is one of my favorites of all time. There is something about the little girls in two straight lines that reminds me of my childhood. The rhythm and rhyme are perfect for any age.
Find this book in: Classic Books for Kids / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Each Peach, Pear, Plum
Author: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Illustrator: Janet and Allan Ahlberg
Year: 1978
Genre: Board Books
Age: 0 – 3
Plot
This adorable eye spy book has wonderful pictures, featuring nursery rhymes and fairy tale characters. It’s a perfect classic children’s book for a 2-year-old.
Why Jackie loves it
The rhyming makes it memorable and easy to recite. This is my favorite book to gift to new parents.
Find this book in: Classic Kids Books / Best Board Books / Books for 1-year-olds / Food Books for Children / Rhyming Books
Green Eggs and Ham
Author: Dr. Suess
Illustrator: Dr. Suess
Year: 1960
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 6
Plot
At 60 years old, this book is a classic that has withstood the test of time. The rhyme, rhythm, and repetition in this book make it so easy to remember and predict what will happen.
Why Jackie loves it
The silliness and the story make it enjoyable for parents to read. Not only is this book hilarious, but it teaches a lesson about trying new food as well.
Find this book in: Books About Food for Kids / Classic Books for Kids / Rhyming Books
Plot
The rhythm of the story and the non-sensical rhymes make the book completely captivating. A boy and a bear head out on an adventure to pick berries in this delightful classic kids’ book. Marshmallow Cattails? Waffle and butter lily pads? Yes, please!
As a bonus, there is counting and alliteration in this picture book. No list of books for kids would be complete without this adorable read.
Why Kirsten loves it
This was my favorite book to read to her kids and as soon as you look at the pictures and start reading it, you will understand why. I have a video of reading this to my son when he was 4 months old and his face lit up as I read it. It will forever be in my home.
Find this book in: Alliteration Books / Counting Books / Rhyming Books / Best Board Books / Kids Food Books / Best Books for a 1-year-old
Chicken Soup with Rice
Author: Maurice Sendak
Illustrator: Maurice Sendak
Year: 1962
Genre: Classic Picture Book
Age: 2 – 5
Plot
Chicken Soup with Rice is one of 4 rhyming stories in this collection of Maurice Sendak’s work. Not only does this book rhyme but it teaches the months of the year as well.
Why Jackie loves it
The set of books by Maurice Sendak was turned into a play called Really Rosie. You can find the music and sing along.
Find this book in: Rhyming Books / Best Books for 2-year-olds
Plot
This classic alliteration book is a twisty, turny, tongue-scrambling dream come true for word-lovers like me and a nightmare if you try and read this too quickly.
Why Jackie loves it
I absolutely love to read about the Tweetle beetle battles with their paddles in puddles. If you are looking for alliteration in books, this one is the clear champion.
Find this book in: Alliteration Books / Rhyming Books / Best Books for 4-year-olds
More Rhyming Books by Chris Van Dusen
More Rhyming Books by Sandra Boynton
Tip from a Speech Therapist
Reading rhyming books is the perfect time to work on reading readiness skills and phonological awareness. Consider these fun activities while you are reading together
- Have your child identify rhyming words on the page after you have read it to them
- Have your child think of a word that rhymes with a word on the page
- Give your child a word and go back and forth coming up with rhymes to see who can think of the most
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Rhyming Book?
A rhyming book is a picture book or a board book for kids in which the story is told in rhyme or rhyming is a main component of the book.
What Age are Rhyming Books good for?
Rhyming books are suitable for kids of all ages and are particularly enjoyable for adults reading them to children as well.
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Epilogue
Did we include your favorite rhyming book?
